News Article

Mohun Bagan to host Colombo FC in AFC Cup Qualifier

Mohun Bagan had defeated the Sri Lankan club 2-1 in the first leg in Colombo...

Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan have had a rich history in both domestic and continental competition over the years. The Mariners, who are representing Indian football in this year’s AFC Cup, will be facing Sri Lankan champions Colombo FC in their second leg of the AFC Cup Qualifier at home.

Mohun Bagan had played against the Colombo-based club a few days ago, when they won 1-2 and are currently looking forward to registering their second win over the Sri Lankan team to make it to the next round.

A rather newly established football club, Colombo FC started their professional existence in 2008. Since their establishment, the Colombo-based club has won their fair share of silverware down the years which includes Sri Lankan Champions Trophy, Sri Lankan FA Cup and the Dialog Champions League. With recent successful years to back them up, the visitors are expecting to put on a memorable show in the City of Joy.

Team News

Mohun Bagan will be missing several key squad members in their clash against Colombo FC on Tuesday such as Kingshuk Debnath, Kean Lewis, Eduardo Ferreira and Raju Gaikwad with injuries. However, the Mariners do not have any suspension woes to be concerned about against the Sri Lankan team which will make Bagan coach Sanjoy Sen's job comparatively easier to execute.

Colombo FC will be missing two of their foreign players Afeez Olofin and David Osagie due to visa problems. The other foreign player, Momas Yapo is expected to join the squad on the morning of the match and will be doubtful against Mohun Bagan. However, the visitors do not have any injuries to be concerned about which comes as welcome news for coach Roomy Hassan.

Head to Head

Tuesday’s AFC Cup qualifying round match will be the second time both the teams are meeting each other after the first leg ended in the favor of the Mariners 2-1.

Coach's Corner

Sanjoy Sen-Mohun Bagan: Sen, who coached the Mohun Bagan team to a 1-2 win in Colombo a few days ago, seemed cautious ahead of the Colombo FC game. “I am rating this game highly,” said Sen to the reporters in the pre-match press conference. The former Mohammedan SC coach warned that his team will not play for anything less than a win against the visitors and will put up a good show despite the recent injuries. “We will play to win the game. We will use our full strength against Colombo FC,” said the veteran coach. The coach was asked which Colombo FC players he will be watching out for in Tuesday’s game, on which he answered, “I don’t know their names but the numbers 7 and 10 were amazing against us in Colombo.”

Roomy Hassan-Colombo FC: The Colombo FC coach, whose team lost 1-2 in the first leg of the AFC Cup fixture against Mohun Bagan was asked for his feeling about playing against the Kolkata giants at their home when he replied, “We know the stature of Mohun Bagan. I have prepared the boys a little bit differently for this match.” The coach was specific about his gameplan against Mohun Bagan, “I want to play an attacking form of football,” he said. The visiting side’s coach was asked for his opinion about the most dangerous opposition player when he responded, “He’s a Japanese player.” “Katsumi, he’s a creator,” he further added. Despite all of the small talk, Hassan warned that the visitors are here with fewer expectations but a strong spirit and will give their best against Mohun Bagan on Tuesday. “We are the underdogs but we will give our best tomorrow,” Hassan said. “We are confident and we are well-prepared,” he further added.

Man to Watch

Darryl Duffy-Mohun Bagan: The Scottish striker, who debuted in the continental tournament against Colombo FC a few days ago, will again face the Sri Lankan team on Tuesday in what will be his second AFC Cup appearance. Duffy is expected to be a threat to Colombo’s defense considering his recent heroics in the league games. Duffy, who is widely regarded for his positional sense and his pace will be a real threat to the Colombo defenders on Tuesday. Duffy not only brings the finishing ability but also has exceptional aerial ability which makes him a force to reckon with against Colombo FC.

Zarwan Johar-Colombo FC: The rising star in Sri Lankan football, Johar plays as a striker for Colombo FC. The former Sri Lankan U-19 captain was a late substitute in Colombo’s previous game which resulted in a win for the Colombo-based team. The striker is well known for his speed and finishing abilities as well as playmaking qualities in the local league. If an opportunity arises, Johar is expected to be the first to pounce against Mohun Bagan on Tuesday.